In the genes

VERSATILE ACTING Manoj Bajpai Photo: Rajeev Bhatt

Not for him formula films or politics. Though he comes from a State where, as he describes it, “Politics is something that everybody in Bihar discusses over their morning cup of tea. I am too forthright to be a politician, there are pressures during the elections that often I jump into the fray, but frankly I am too scared to take the plunge.” That’s Manoj Bajpai delivering one of his best monologues. He admits that after the phenomenal success of “Satya” he hasn’t seen much action but he is stoic and retains faith in himself. “I refuse to chase formula films. And if anyone says change, I’d say it’s too late to change my DNA. My strategy is still the same. I want to experiment with genres, do something different every time. That is one reason why I am willing to take risks and accept roles that may seem difficult.” Bajpai adds that it wasn’t as if commercial films or formula films were not coming his way, “It’s just that I never did aspire to be the next superstar or chase after commercial hits. For me, it’s always more important to be happy and proud of what I am doing. A lot of my films may not have had commercial success, but I am proud of acting in each one of them.” he said. “I’ve always wanted to be associated with roles that are substantial, roles that challenge me. I am an actor and that’s what I do best,” quips Bajpai.